Spring brings not only colorful daffodils and tulips, but also the exciting open house season. For a home seller, it’s a great way to create foot traffic and exposure for your property. For a prospective buyer, open houses can help educate you on neighborhoods and house types to help narrow your focus.

In this two-part blog, we’ll share a few tips for both hosting and attending open houses.

Tips for Home Sellers

Make a good first impression. Freshen up landscaping and exterior paint. Plant flowers in pots, clean driveway and walkways, and remove cars from driveway and front of the house.

Clean and declutter. Start packing before your house goes on the market to remove personal items, knickknacks and extra furniture, so that prospective buyers can focus on the home’s features. Clean closets, windows and everything to make the house sparkle.

Remove pets, if possible. Take pets with you when you leave during an open house. If they can’t be removed, confine them in a low-traffic area of the home. Place all pet-related items such as water and food bowls, crates and litter boxes in basement or storage area.

Let in the light. Open all curtains and blinds and turn lights on in every room, including wall sconces and table lamps, to make the home bright and cheerful.

Protect your belongings. Place jewelry and prescription medicines in plastic bags and take them with you, or lock them up in your home.

Freshen up. Place a small bouquet of fresh flowers in a central location, such as the kitchen or dining room. Store all dishcloths, dishtowels and soaps under the kitchen sink. Reserve a few new or fresh towels only for showings and place in all bathrooms and powder rooms.

Next week, we’ll share tips on how to prepare for an open house if you’re a buyer.